Poland: Severe flooding occurring in parts of Lower Silesia Voivodeship late Sept. 14

Severe flooding is occurring in parts of Lower Silesia Voivodeship as of late Sept. 14 following several days of heavy rains. According to local authorities, water levels in the Biala Ladecka and Morawa rivers have exceeded those experienced during the Great Flood of 1997 and continue to rise. Additionally, the Miedzygorze Dam on the Wilczka River began overflowing at about 23:30 posing a significant threat to downstream communities, including Bystrzyca Klodzka. The Regional Water Management Board in Wroclaw has issued a critical situation alert for areas potentially impacted by the dam overflow, as well as the town of Stronie Slaskie on the Morawa; residents of low-lying areas are being evacuated. Certain local schools, sports facilities, and community centers have been designated as temporary shelters. Meteorologists forecast heavy rains to continue through at least Sept. 15.

There have as yet been no reports of casualties. However, severe travel and business disruptions are almost certain until the flood waters abate and authorities complete their emergency response. Flooding could cause power cuts, affect clean water sources, or disrupt telecommunication services in the area. The situation in towns and villages along the Wilczka and Nysa Klodzka rivers could escalate quickly in the event that the Miedzygorze Dam should experience a structural or technical failure.